Gantz: We'll Continue to Stand Strong

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz extends his best wishes for Rosh Hashanah to the Jewish people and their families.

By A7 Staff

First Publish: 9/28/2011, 12:14 AM

IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz prayed the Jewish people would have peace in the coming year in his Rosh Hashanah greeting, invoking the Prophet Isaiah.

"In the year ahead we will continue to stand strong against all those who seek our demise and to be the shield of the Jewish people worldwide," Gantz said.

"We do so even as we pray for security and peace, and while the IDF must be prepared for every possible scenario, we seek peace with all who will live with us in harmony.

"We eagerly await the fulfillment of the prophet Isaiah's vision 'nation shall not lift up sword against nation, nor shall they learn war anymore,'" Gantz added.

Gantz also prayed for the return of IDF soldiers who are missing or held captive, and recalled the sacrifice soldiers who have fallen in battle.

"We must recall the IDF soldiers who are missing in action, held captive, and cannot rejoice at their holiday table," Gantz said. "We all join in prayer and share in the hope that this coming year we will see their release. The IDF will continue operations to bring them home.

"We also mourn the loss of those who are no longer with us. We hold their brave families close standing with them side by side," Gantz said.

"To the people of Israel, and all Jews around the world Happy New Year – Shana Tova."